B&Q takes staff induction online

DIY chain B&Q has turned to e-learning to help with the induction
process for new staff and to cut training time and costs.

The retailer has installed two computers in each of its 318 outlets,
offering online learning to 30,000 staff.

B&Q HR director Mike Cutt said the online system will help integrate the
4,000 extra staff being recruited this year. "It will help with staff
induction and help people find time to train," he said. The system will
also help staff recruited through the firm’s over-50s policy who may need to
improve their basic IT skills.

Cutt is hoping the e-learning initiative will result in significant cost and
time savings for HR because of the reduction in classroom training.

"It is difficult to get 30,000 staff from different locations together
in retail for training," said Cutt. "With e-learning it can be done
at the individual’s convenience."